The Early Spark and Transformation
How I finally landed in a top B-School after two failed attempts is a story of resilience, determination, and unwavering ambition. From my early days in school, I displayed a keen interest in business concepts, even achieving the distinction of being the Hyderabad region topper in business studies in the CBSE exams. Hailing from a remote village in Shivamogga district, and coming from a farming family, my journey towards a top B-School was not an easy one. However, my experiences at Navodaya School, which opened my eyes to a world of opportunities, laid the foundation for my aspirations.
The Spark Turns into a Flame
Strong thoughts of pursuing an MBA took root when I began working at TVS Motors. However, it was during my tenure at the Asian Paints Head Office in Mumbai that my desire for a business education grew stronger. Interacting with accomplished professionals and mentors fueled my determination to excel and spurred me to take an extra step in every aspect of my work.
Two Failed Attempts: Lessons in Resilience
Despite my earnest efforts, my first attempt at the CAT exam in 2020 yielded a mediocre percentile, failing to secure admission to a desirable B-School. A second attempt, undertaken with just one week of preparation, resulted in another unsatisfactory percentile. However, during this phase, I found guidance and motivation from my manager and professional mentor, who helped me gain clarity on the importance of not compromising on my dreams.
The Turning Point and Third Attempt
Motivated by my mentor's unwavering belief in my abilities, I was determined to make a serious attempt at securing admission to a top-tier B-School. Starting my preparations in June, I followed a focused and disciplined study plan, achieving promising percentiles in mock tests. However, on D-Day, I faced a technical glitch in the allocated system, causing panic and resulting in another average percentile. Despite this setback, my mentor's confidence in me kept me determined, and I continued to pursue other exams. The magic started happening when I secured exceptional percentiles in SNAP (99.07), XGMT (97.96), and IIFT (94.52), opening doors to prestigious institutions and eventually converting SIBM Pune, SCMHRD, IIFT Delhi, XIMB Bhubaneswar, and GIM Goa Achievers round.
Insights for Current MBA Aspirants
In the midst of the MBA entrance preparation season, I would like to share a few valuable insights that proved instrumental in my success:
1. Understanding Exam Basics: Familiarize yourself with the syllabus and difficulty levels of the specific exams you are targeting. This knowledge will help you allocate time wisely and focus on the areas that matter most.
2. Consistency is Key: Allocate sufficient time for syllabus coverage, revision, and developing the right mindset. Remember, your journey extends beyond the exams themselves, encompassing GD, WAT, and PI rounds.
3. Mock Tests and Strategy: Take mock tests and sectional tests to gauge your progress and identify areas for improvement. Develop a well-thought-out strategy for attempting mocks and analyze your performance to refine your approach.
4. Seek a Mentor: A reliable mentor who understands the nuances of these exams can provide invaluable guidance and support. Their expertise will help you navigate challenges and make informed decisions throughout the process.
5. Explore Multiple Options: CAT is not the only MBA entrance exam. Keep your options open and consider other exams to increase your chances of admission to a top B-School.
Where I Am Now?
My perseverance paid off when I received admission to the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade, Delhi, for their flagship MBA in International Business program. Seeing my name in the merit list was an indescribable moment, especially coming from a humble background. I am now determined to extend a helping hand to fellow aspirants, working towards making their dreams come true.
My journey from two failed attempts to securing admission in a top B-School taught me the importance of perseverance, resilience, and seeking guidance when needed. To all the aspiring MBA students, remember that your limitations are only defined by yourself. Dream big, believe in yourself, take bold actions, and the results will follow. Your journey may be filled with challenges and setbacks, but it is these very moments that will shape you into a stronger, more determined individual. Embrace the process, stay motivated, and never lose sight of your ultimate goal. In addition, to all the aspirants who are dreaming big, I am more than willing to extend my helping hand. Let's work towards making your dreams come true together.
